A devastating overnight landslide in Abidjan, Ivory Coast’s main city, claimed the lives of six people following torrential rainfall.
Government Minister Myss Belmonde Dogo reported the incident in the Mossikro area of the Attecoube district, affecting three properties.
Seven other individuals were rescued and transported to Yopougon University Hospital for treatment.
A survivor, Audrey Toh Lou, recounted the terrifying moment when the earth above collapsed onto their home during the heavy rain.
Heavy rainfall is characteristic of Ivory Coast between May and late July, frequently leading to landslides and widespread flooding, which tragically result in numerous deaths each year.
In June 2023, the Mossikro area also experienced a fatal landslide that killed five people due to similar intense rainfall.
The year 2023 witnessed approximately 30 fatalities linked to these severe weather events, while the rains in the preceding year caused over 20 deaths.
Precarious and informal construction is prevalent in Abidjan’s impoverished and flood-vulnerable areas, contributing to the heightened risk during heavy rains.
In response to this ongoing issue, the government initiated a large-scale clear-up policy in the previous year, leading to the demolition of many informal housing settlements.
However, this policy faced significant criticism from affected residents, opposition parties, and non-governmental organizations, including Amnesty International.
Concerns were raised due to the limited reported resettlement of those who were forcibly evicted from their homes.
